In today’s market, selling a quality product or service isn’t enough to distinguish yourself from competitors. Customers are looking beyond the products, they are looking for sustainable business practices. 

Sustainable business practices are more than a tactic to get on the customer’s good side. Considering the rapidly progressing climate change, your business should do its part in saving the environment. And several sustainable changes also lower business costs, which is another positive. 

Incorporating sustainable practices into your business doesn’t have to be a drastic change. You can advance gradually and here’s how-

 

• Go Paperless

 

Make it an office policy to use paper sparingly. Use both sides of the paper when printing anything. 

In fact, with the advancement of technology, the need for paper can be reduced to a minimum or even completely eliminated. You can use various software for filing and everyday communication, which can be tailored to your specific business needs. It’s faster, easier, and cheaper.

 

• Reduce Energy Consumption

 

Every member of your organization needs to be aware of their everyday energy consumption. It goes without saying that lights and electronics should be turned off when not in use. You have the option to automate the process by installing motion-sensor lights.

 

• Use Renewable Energy

 

Intel, Google, and Apple are few of the major corporations using green energy to power their business processes. Similarly, your business can reduce its impact on the environment by switching to renewable energy. Green energy generated from solar, hydro, wind, or biomass can also lower your overall costs. So, compare electricity providers to find a suitable green plan for your business.

 

• Focus on Energy Efficiency

 

In addition to lowering energy consumption, it’s also important to consume energy efficiently. This can be achieved by purchasing energy-efficient electronics and appliances. Furthermore, ensure your offices are properly insulated to prevent energy loss. 

 

• Get a Smart Thermostat

 

An overly cold or hot office is not just uncomfortable, but also unnecessarily increases your energy bills. Get a smart thermostat that will automatically adjust the temperature and thereby allow greater energy savings.

 

• Conduct an Energy Audit

 

There are only so many energy-efficient measures you can figure out on your own. It would be best to get an energy auditor on board. By conducting an energy audit, you can accurately determine which areas are consuming the most energy and ways to reduce your overall energy consumption.

 

• Explore Telecommuting

 

Telecommuting holds major potential for your business. Give your employees the option to work from home. This will cut-back your office space and utility costs. Moreover, for employees, it will reduce the time, money, and energy spent on transportation. When implemented correctly, telecommuting policies can enhance employee productivity and morale.

 

• Purchase Recycled & Repurposed

 

Whether you’re looking for new desks or electronics, explore recycled and repurposed options. Recycled furniture, in particular, is easily available at affordable prices.

 

• Recycle, Recycle, Recycle

 

All the waste generated by your business should be properly recycled. Special care should be taken to dispose of electronic waste. You can even consider outsourcing this task to a waste management expert.

 

• Eliminate Single-Use Plastic

 

Plastic can take up to 1000 years to decompose! So it’s crucial to eliminate single-use plastic from your organization. Rather than providing single-use plastic cups to your employees, encourage them to use reusable cups. 

 

• Use Biodegradable Materials

 

For packing products, start using reusable or biodegradable packaging materials. 

 

• Collaborate with Green Vendors

 

To further promote your green ethos, you should make it a business goal to work with green vendors exclusively. The prospect of earning new contacts will encourage other suppliers and vendors to adopt green practices.

The Bottom Line

It’s high time to make sustainability an inherent part of your business. Hopefully, the aforementioned tips steer your business in the right direction.